Samsung Soundbar HDMI Not Working? (7 Quick Fixes!)

ByFinn Wheatley
samsung soundbar hdmi not working

If you’re wondering why the Samsung soundbar HDMI not working, you are at the right place!

While connecting your Samsung soundbar over a wired connection is always the better option, there could still be issues with the audio transfer or output.

We have discovered that issues with the soundbar’s HDMI are often caused by an improper HDMI connection or incorrect settings.

If the Samsung soundbar’s HDMI connection is not working, ensure that you’re using the “HDMI-ARC” port on the TV, and reseat the HDMI from both ends.

Then set the soundbar as a default output and if the issue persists, perform a factory reset.

Keep reading for a complete walkthrough of the issue!

Why is Samsung Soundbar Not Working With HDMI?

samsung soundbar not working with hdmi

Here’s what can possibly prevent the Samsung soundbar from working over HDMI:

  • There’s a problem with the soundbar’s HDMI cable.
  • The soundbar is not connected to the “HDMI ARC”.
  • The soundbar is not selected as the default output.
  • There is an issue with the TV or soundbar’s power.
  • “HDMI-CEC” or external features are causing faults.

Let’s fix this, shall we?

Samsung Soundbar HDMI Not Working – Fixed in Easy Steps!

Note: Have you checked if the TV or soundbar is mute or the volume is lowered to 0%?

1. Connect the Soundbar to an HDMI ARC

connect the soundbar to hdmi arc

The first step is to verify that the Samsung soundbar is connected to an HDMI ARC port on the back of the TV or input device.

HDMI audio needs to be transferred through an “Audio Return Channel” of the TV to achieve high-quality output and minimize all interruptions or disruptions.

How to Recognize “HDMI-ARC” TV Input?

By default, there are between 3 and 4 HDMI inputs on most TV models, one or two of which are designated for audio connection.

To identify such a port, you must look for a label at the top or underneath the port that says “Audio” or simply “ARC” on most TVs.

All remaining HDMI inputs prioritized video quality over audio, where you won’t get much sound depth and quality of the Samsung soundbar!

2. Reseat the Soundbar’s HDMI Cable

reseat the soundbar’s hdmi cable

A potential fault in the physical HDMI connection between the TV and the soundbar may muffle or entirely disrupt the audio output.

That is why the next step is to reseat the HDMI cable from both devices and ensure it is properly connected to the TV’s and the Samsung soundbar’s port.

Follow these instructions to properly reseat the soundbar’s HDMI:

  1. Disconnect the HDMI cable from the back of the soundbar.
  2. Unplug the other end from the HDMI port on the TV device.
  3. Wait for 40 seconds while the HDMI cable is disconnected.
  4. Connect the HDMI cable on both ends and test the soundbar.
Note: If the HDMI cable is loose or unsecured, there could be audio distortions, persistent disruptions, or a complete attenuation of the audio.

3. Set the Soundbar as a Default Output

Even if there are no other external devices connected to your TV, you may still need to specify the Samsung soundbar as the default audio output device of the system.

All TVs are set to use the built-in system speakers by default and the selection can be done through the “Audio” or “Sound” menu within the settings.

set the soundbar as a default output

Here’s how to set the Samsung soundbar as the default output device:

  1. Press the “Home” button on the TV’s remote control.
  2. Navigate to the “Settings” or “Menu” settings page.
  3. After that, scroll down to the “Sound” or “Audio” tile.
  4. Next, go to “Sound Output” or “External Speakers.”
  5. Find a “Samsung Soundbar” or just a “Soundbar” tile.
  6. Use the remote to highlight and lock in the selection.
Tip: You can consult with the TV’s user manual or online for exact steps!

4. Power Cycle the TV and Soundbar

You can address underlying issues with the power supply of the TV or the Samsung soundbar by performing a power cycle on both devices. 

The power cycle of the hardware can be achieved after suspending the device’s power supply for long enough until all electricity discharges.

power cycle the tv and soundbar

Let’s start with power cycling the soundbar!

How to Power Cycle Samsung Soundbar?

  1. Hold the “Power” button on the soundbar’s remote control.
  2. After ~30 seconds, unplug your soundbar supplying cable.
  3. Wait for another minute while the soundbar is discharging.
  4. Install the soundbar’s power adapter securely on both ends.
  5. Turn on the soundbar and test your HDMI TV connection.

How to Power Cycle Any Model TV Device?

power cycle any model tv device
  1. Hold the “Power” button on the TV’s remote for 10 seconds.
  2. After the TV powers off, unplug the power cord from the A/C.
  3. Disconnect the other end of the cable from the back of the TV.
  4. Next, hold the soundbar’s “Power” button for 10–15 seconds.
  5. Reinstall the soundbar’s power adapter on both ends and test.
Warning: If there’s any damage to the soundbar’s power adapter, you’ll need a replacement!

5. Replace the Soundbar’s HDMI Cable

If you’re still unable to hear the TV’s output through the Samsung soundbar, the issue is most likely related to a malfunction of the HDMI cable.

Hence, the next step is to test the audio of the soundbar after installing a replacement HDMI cable and connecting it to the TV’s “HDMI ARC”.

How to Identify a Defective HDMI Cable?

identify a defective hdmi cable

Well, HDMI malfunctions can be separated into two categories – internal or external defects! 

If the HDMI has simply stopped working, there will be no way of telling unless tested on another compatible device.

In contrast, the external malfunctions represent rips, cuts, or broken ports.

Tip: Test the HDMI cable on another video or audio device to determine if it works!

6. Activate the “HDMI-CEC” On the TV

Activating your TV’s “HDMI-CEC” (Consumer Electronics Control) allows the soundbar to be turned on simultaneously with the TV, using a single remote control.

It is a reliable method to determine if the soundbar is detecting the HDMI connection at all and what is the true culprit.

activate hdmi-cec on the tv

Here’s how to activate and set up “HDMI-CEC” on most TVs:

  1. First, press the “Home” button on the TV’s remote.
  2. Navigate to the “Devices” or “HDMI Settings” tab.
  3. Activate the “HDMI-CEC” feature from the settings.

How is “HDMI-CEC” Called On Different TVs?

The “HDMI-CEC” option goes under a different nickname in the settings of each of the TV brands.

Let’s learn how:

  • Samsung – Anynet+
  • Sony – BRAVIA Sync
  • LG – SimpLink
  • Philips – EasyLink
  • Panasonic – EZ-Sync or VIERA Link
  • Hisense – Anyview Cast or RemoteNow
  • Toshiba – CE-Link or Regza Link
  • Sharp – Aquos Link
Tip: Check the exact instructions to activate “HDMI-CEC” within the TV’s user manual!

7. Reset the Soundbar’s System Settings

reset soundbar’s system settings

If you’re still having issues with the Samsung soundbar, you should perform a factory reset on the soundbar’s system.

Activating this function will restore all audio and network configurations of the Samsung soundbar to factory defaults, allowing you to set up the device’s settings initially.

Here’s how to perform a factory reset on the Samsung soundbar easily:

  1. Verify the soundbar is working and receiving power.
  2. Hold the “Volume Up” and “Volume Down” buttons.
  3. Release the buttons after holding them for 10 seconds.
  4. Wait until the Samsung soundbar reboots and resets.

After the reset, the soundbar’s audio settings must be re-configured; the unit must also be reconnected to the respective Wi-Fi network.

Quick Recap

So, if the Samsung soundbar HDMI not working, reinstall the cable on both ends, switch to an “HDMI ARC” port on the TV, and power cycle the device.

If the HDMI issue persists, activate “HDMI-CEC” on the TV and restore the soundbar to default settings.

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